Harnesses, lanyards (and indeed all PPE) must be inspected before each use. They must also be inspected by a height safety equipment inspector every six months or as per the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure good working order.

While most disposable RPE is single-use, some people do get a longer lifespan with light use with non-toxic chemicals. If you do plan on re-using single use RPE, you need to be careful with contamination and storage after use.

Sunscreen

Once opened, sunscreens will begin to lose their protective properties after six months, according to Choice.

Unopened they can be expected to retain their maximum protective properties for around three years from manufacture, after which time their active ingredients become less effective.

Look for a “best before” or expiry date stamped on sunscreens. Discard any sunscreen that are beyond that date, have been opened more than six months or on the shelf for a few years.

How long does general PPE last?

All PPE has a lifespan however how long that is will vary based on usage rates, the environment it is being used in (whether indoors or outdoors) and the levels of UV, chemical, dirt and sweat exposure.

How the PPE is stored when not in use is also a major factor. Is it looked after? Often PPE is treated poorly and left in the back of the ute at the mercy of the elements, reducing its lifespan.